Browns sign former Carolina TE Barnidge

Berea, OH -- Former Carolina tight end Gary Barnidge has reunited with his old offensive coordinator, signing a three-year deal to join Rob Chudzinski, the Browns new head coach, in Cleveland.

After missing the entire 2011 season with a broken ankle Barnidge returned last year, appearing in 16 games for Carolina as the backup to Greg Olsen and amassing six receptions for 78 yards with one touchdown.

"I know Gary very well from my time in Carolina, and feel that he will be a good addition to our tight end group," said Chudzinski. "He has worked hard to develop as both a blocker and a receiver.

"His familiarity with our offense will give him the opportunity to make a smooth transition with us. In Carolina, he also stood out on our special teams unit, and should be an integral part of that phase here with the Browns."

Originally selected by the Panthers in the fifth round of the 2008 NFL Draft out of Louisville, Barnidge has appeared in 62 career regular season games with 11 starts. He has totaled 18 receptions for 320 yards with one touchdown, and added 39 career special teams tackles and one fumble recovery.